The Idea of Progress in Ibn Rushd (Averroes) and the Enlightenment Philosophies

Frequently, the idea of progress considered as one of the three foundations of the enlightenment philosophy (eighteenth century A.D). But it can be traced to the philosophy of Ibn Rushd, the great Muslim Illuminationist (Masha’i) philosopher, six centuries before that. This article, in its three parts, gives a definition of the idea first, then explores its relationship with rationality, philosophy and realism, and finally studies the views of Ibn Rushd on this notion and shows that a Muslim philosopher, centuries ago, has acknowledged this principle and had commitment to some of its requirements. Belief in progress in both philosophies makes it necessary for the folks of philosophy to increase their sense of responsibility, and opens new horizons before them. I have studied the Enlightenment, mainly, relying on Ernest Cassirer’s analysis, and the philosophy of Ibn Rushd, referring to his important treatise -“Fasl al-Maqal”.